Dan Friedkin’s Potential Mistake: Appointing Gareth Southgate as Everton Manager
Everton FC’s unpredictable landscape has left fans and pundits alike stunned, with the latest takeover news being no exception. Renowned Sky Sports reporter Alan Myers admitted that the developments revealing Dan Friedkin’s agreed deal to buy Everton caught him off guard.
However, this isn’t the only aspect of the club that has raised eyebrows. The Toffees’ transfers, managerial appointments, and financial decisions have faced scrutiny throughout Farhad Moshiri’s era. Fortunately, Dan Friedkin’s ownership promises a fresh start.
A Questionable Replacement for Sean Dyche
Despite Sean Dyche’s impressive work, rumors suggest his replacement is already being lined up. Graham Potter’s potential appointment could be justified as a bid to usher in an exciting new era. Nonetheless, appointing Gareth Southgate would be inexplicable.
Southgate’s England tenure was marked by highs and lows. His failure to overcome Spain in the European Championship finals led to his departure. While he achieved success with the national team, his tactical decisions and personnel choices drew intense criticism.
Why Southgate Would Be a Misfit at Everton
Evertonians are unlikely to warm up to Southgate, given his defensive approach. The current discontent with Dyche’s tactics would only intensify under Southgate’s management. Dyche, despite his limitations, has a proven track record of keeping teams afloat in the Premier League.
In contrast, Southgate’s possession-based football often fell flat with England, struggling to create chances for top players like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Bukayo Saka. It’s unrealistic to expect him to replicate success with Everton’s squad.
A Defensive Mindset
Southgate’s tactics have been criticized for being overly cautious. His reluctance to adapt and inability to inspire attacking flair would alienate Everton fans. The Toffees require a manager who can unlock their offensive potential, not stifle it.
Lack of Cutting-Edge
England’s inability to create scoring opportunities under Southgate was staggering. With limited resources at Everton, Southgate’s appointment would only exacerbate this issue. The fans deserve a manager who can maximize their squad’s potential.
Friedkin’s First Big Mistake
Replacing Dyche with Southgate would be Friedkin’s first significant error. Before his tenure has even begun, this move would undermine fan confidence. Everton requires a visionary manager who can inject excitement and attacking flair, not a defensive-minded tactician.
The Right Appointment
Everton needs a manager who:
- Understands the club’s DNA
- Can inspire attacking football
- Has a proven Premier League track record
- Can maximize the squad’s potential
Gareth Southgate fails to meet these criteria. Dan Friedkin must prioritize the fans’ desires and the team’s needs. A more inspiring appointment would kick-start a promising era under Friedkin’s ownership.
Conclusion
As Everton embarks on a new chapter under Dan Friedkin, the appointment of Gareth Southgate would be a misstep. Friedkin must prioritize the fans’ expectations and the team’s requirements. A more visionary manager would unlock Everton’s potential and usher in an exciting era.